Baird Creek Bike Trail
The Baird Creek Trail is on Green Bay’s east side. It journeys 3.2 miles west from a trailhead to the East River Trail. For much of its course, the asphalt-paved path moves through a forested parkway with interpretive markers and park benches placed at scenic spots. The path takes its name for the babbling creek it follows through Baird Creek Greenway. This natural area contains a pristine habitat for wildlife, flora, and birds of all sorts.
The trailhead is located at 324 Baird Creek Road. From Interstate Highway 43, take exit 118 to the east onto E. Mason Street. Turn left (north) immediately onto Superior Road. This road parallels the interstate highway for one mile. Then it turns left (east), goes under the highway, and becomes Baird Creek Road. The parking lot is 0.3 mile further on the left (south) side of the road. The trailhead has no amenities except a trail map kiosk.
From the parking lot, the trail slopes downhill to meet Baird Creek. The creek is named after Henry S. Baird, an early settler who moved to Green Bay with his wife Elizabeth in 1824. A lawyer, Henry Baird traveled the frontier with Judge James Duane Doty, holding court at Green Bay, Prairie du Chien, and Michilimackinac (Mackinac Island). Baird served as mayor of Green Bay in 1861-1862, and is remembered as the “Father of the Wisconsin Bar.”
Baird’s Creek runs through a wooded valley on a bed of limestone. At different places along the creek, small waterfalls crop up. These are visible from the trail. Park benches along the path encourage people to enjoy the serenity and view wildlife, including white-tailed deer.
The trail descends as it moves westward through the forested parkway. While not noticeable from the trail, the Triangle Sports Area is situated to the north. For years, this area was known as “Little Switzerland” because of its good hills for tobogganing. A ski area opened in 1953, and today the park also has disc golf and mountain biking trails.
After 1.2 miles, the trail ascends the creek’s bank about 40 feet and arrives at Baird Creek Park. This park has an athletic field and playground. The bike path then meets Danz Avenue and heads left (south) alongside the street. The route bridges the creek and turns right (west) across road. The path continues 0.6 miles through forested and residential areas.
The trail still follows Baird Creek, but the next half-mile runs through an industrial area. Care should be taken when crossing the railroad tracks there. A Green Bay Packers Heritage Trail marker is found near the trail’s crossing at Main Street.
Another interpretive marker is near Riverside Ballroom, where the trail skirts its parking lot. This historic ballroom opened in 1936, and was one of the final venues for the 1959 Winter Dance Party tour featuring Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and the Big Bopper. The concert was held on February 1st, two days before the tragic plane crash that took the performers’ lives.
Map of trailheads and addresses along this section of the trail.
The 3.2-mile trail ends after crossing Baird Creek. Another Green Bay Packers Heritage Trail marker is located there. Trail-goers may continue straight (south) on a short spur trail to Anne Sullivan School, or turn right (west) and cross the river to join the East River Trail at Joannes Park. Parking is available at both locations. Anne Sullivan School is located at 1567 Deckner Avenue. The address for Joannes Park is 215 S Baird Street.
A scenic ride awaits bicyclists on Baird Creek Bike Trail. The splashing waters of the nearby creek beckon trail-goers to pause by its serene banks and enjoy the setting. Although it runs through a city, a lush woods surround most of the trail’s route. Biking organizations have labeled Baird Creek Trail as “Green Bay’s little gem” and “best bike trail in the city.”
Trail last ridden and documented in June, 2021.